How to reply to a holiday greeting email

Updated November 12, 2026

Return the greeting in a few warm lines. Name the holiday, thank them, and add one personal line about the year or plans. Match their level of formality. A reply isn't required, but it takes a minute and strengthens the connection. Do it within the holiday week if you can.

Reply

Within the holiday week. A holiday greeting is a simple gesture, so a quick, friendly answer fits. After the holiday it can still be nice, but it feels more natural while it's current.

What your reply should say

1. Return the greeting, naming the holiday or season so it feels personal.
2. Thank them for thinking of you, and mention one thing from the year.
3. Share what you're doing or hoping for in the new year, briefly.
4. Close with a warm wish for them and their family.

3 replies you can copy

Pick the one that matches what you want to say, copy it, and change everything in [brackets].

Hi [Name],

Thank you for the lovely greeting! Happy [holiday] to you and your family.

This year has been [one detail about your year], and I'm looking forward to [plan or hope]. I hope you get plenty of rest and time with people you love.

Let's catch up in the new year.

Love,
[Your name]

Dear [Name],

Thank you for your kind greeting. Happy [holiday] to you and your team.

It's been a pleasure working with you this year. I look forward to continuing in the new year.

Thank you again for your trust, and I hope the holiday brings you rest.

Best wishes,
[Your name]

Hi [Name],

Thank you for your warm wishes. I hope you have a restful break and a good start to the new year.

It was great to be in touch this year, and I look forward to the next.

I wish you and your family peace and good health, and I am grateful for your kindness this year.

Best,
[Your name]

Already late? Send this instead

For when you are a week or two late or more. Own the delay in one line, then do the job.

Hi [Name],

Thank you for your holiday greeting, and sorry for the late reply. I hope your [holiday] was a good one.

I wish you a happy and healthy start to the year. Let's be in touch soon.

Best,
[Your name]

Mistakes to avoid

• Assuming a holiday they may not celebrate. When unsure, use a general season wish.
• Replying-all to a big greeting list and filling everyone's inbox.
• Sneaking a sales pitch or request into a greeting reply.
• Sending a stock message with no name when the sender wrote personally.
• Making it long. Two or three warm lines is enough.

Questions people ask

Do I have to reply to a holiday email?

No, but a short answer is kind and builds the relationship, especially with clients and old friends. If it's a mass mailing from a company, you don't need to answer. Replying also keeps the contact alive for the new year, when people tend to start new projects.

What do I write if I don't know what they celebrate?

Use a general wish like "warm wishes for the season" or "best wishes for the new year." That works for everyone and still sounds friendly. If they named a holiday, you can echo it back. Avoid guessing, since that can feel awkward. Keep it simple and you will be fine.

More reply guides

• How to reply to a family group email
• How to reply to a request to volunteer
• How to reply to a fundraising request email
• How to reply to a thank-you email for a gift you gave
• How to reply to a recruiter's email when you're not looking
• How to reply to an email asking your salary expectations

How this page was made

Written by Westward, who make Orbit, as starting points you edit before sending. The replies use placeholders, not real people or real mail. Nothing here is legal, tax or medical advice; for contracts, money or health, check the document or ask a professional. All reply guides.